Commission approves variance for enlargement and exterior materials at 2937 Datsun Drive

The East Point Planning & Zoning Commission on May 21 approved a variance that will allow the house at 2937 (Dotson/Datsun area) to expand from 2,340 square feet to 3,462 square feet and to use a combination of brick and HardiePlank on the exterior.

Applicant Star Cummings described the property as a 1.33‑acre lot and said the proposal increases square footage by 1,222 square feet and is consistent in materials and scale with nearby homes. She noted demolition and construction permits have been filed and that neighborhood outreach included mailed notices and HOA contacts.

Staff reported the lot is 57,935 square feet (about 1.33 acres) and that the applicant’s proposed house of 3,994 square feet would occupy roughly 6.89% of the lot. Based on those measurements, staff recommended approval of the requested variance from article J, sections 5(f) and 5(g) (square‑footage and exterior materials requirements).

On motion, the commission accepted staff’s recommendation and approved case P2026V‑002‑04 by voice vote. The chair noted the planning and zoning commission is the final arbiter of variances and that the case will not come before the city council.

Why it matters: The variance permits a larger single‑family dwelling than zoning typically allows for the lot; staff’s recommendation focused on the lot’s larger size relative to neighborhood parcels. The decision affects lot coverage, architectural compatibility and future permit review.

Next steps: Applicant may proceed with revised building permits consistent with the approved variance.